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Animation Courtyard Gets a Studio Glow Up as Imagineering Files New Signage Permits at Hollywood Studios
The makeover of Animation Courtyard is stepping into the spotlight! Walt Disney Imagineering has just filed two new permits tied to the transformation of the area into the Walt Disney Studios Lot at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and it is all about the signs of the times. Literally. New signage is on the way for the reimagined space, hinting that this long awaited retheme is moving full speed ahead toward its phased summer debut.
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Walt Disney Imagineering has filed permits for signage installation in the former Animation Courtyard area at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Both permits list Design Communications as the contractor, with the scope of work simply noted as install signage. Sometimes the smallest paperwork carries the biggest story. 📄✨ The first permit covers the building currently home to The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure. While the show itself is staying put, the building will be renamed the Studio Theater as part of the Walt Disney Studios Lot theme inspired by the real studio in Burbank. That likely means fresh exterior lettering is on the way to match the new old Hollywood vibe.
The second permit is tied to the former Animation Courtyard archway address. That iconic entrance was demolished back in October 2025, clearing the way for a new look. Concept art teases a low profile sign reading The Walt Disney Studios, giving the space more of that authentic studio lot feel rather than a theme park courtyard. It is a subtle shift that signals a bigger storytelling move, blending park magic with behind the scenes movie making energy.
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This retheme will also see the return of The Magic of Disney Animation inside the former Star Wars Launch Bay, along with a new Disney Jr. stage show expected to open first in the phased rollout. Recent aerial photos show updated hardscape, added mature trees, and continued work on the entrance that will eventually feature the Sorcerer Mickey hat once again. With summer on the horizon, it feels like this corner of the park is ready for its close up.
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